Category: Phones

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  • HMD Touch 4G: Affordable All-Screen Feature Phone with Compact Design

    HMD Touch 4G: Affordable All-Screen Feature Phone with Compact Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. Device Overview: The HMD Touch 4G is a budget-friendly mobile device that combines features of both smartphones and feature phones, designed for the Indian market.

    2. Design: It has a compact design with a flat display, rounded sides, and a centered rear camera module, available in Dark Blue and Cyan colors.

    3. Specifications: The phone features a 3.2-inch QVGA touchscreen, runs on a Unisoc T127 processor, has 64MB of RAM, 128MB internal storage expandable via MicroSD, and weighs only 100 grams.

    4. Camera and Connectivity: Equipped with a 0.3MP front camera, 2MP rear camera, Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, dual SIM support, and a 1,950mAh battery that lasts up to 30 hours, it also includes IP52 dust and water protection.

    5. Unique Features: The device runs on RTOS Touch, includes Cloud Phone Service for easy access to news and games, and features the Express Chat app for messaging and video calls, priced at ₹3,999 (approximately $45).

    HMD has introduced a new mobile device in India which they claim merges the gap between feature phones and smartphones. Named the HMD Touch 4G, this new gadget is a compact all-screen phone that comes with a budget-friendly price.

    Design and Appearance

    Available in Dark Blue and Cyan, the HMD Touch 4G resembles a mini version of the HMD Skyline. It features a flat display that is framed by a thick forehead and chin, with the chin containing a pill-shaped button. The phone’s sides are rounded, while both the top and bottom are flat. On the rear, there is a centered camera module shaped like a cookie that holds a single camera sensor and an LED flash.

    Specifications

    According to the specs, the device measures 102.3 × 61.85 × 10.85 mm and weighs 100 grams. This makes it slightly taller than the Motorola Razr Ultra, which is currently listed on Amazon for $999.99 when folded.

    In terms of technical features, the HMD Touch 4G is equipped with a 3.2-inch touchscreen that offers QVGA resolution, protected by a 2.5D glass. It runs on the Unisoc T127 processor, the same chip found in the HMD 105 4G. It has 64MB of RAM and a modest 128MB of internal storage, but fortunately, it includes a MicroSD card slot allowing for an extra 32GB of storage.

    Camera and Connectivity

    For photography, users will find a 0.3MP front camera and a 2MP rear sensor. The HMD Touch 4G also supports Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, dual SIM (nano only), FM radio, GPS, a headphone jack, a USB-C port, and it has a single speaker and microphone. It is powered by a 1,950mAh battery, which HMD claims can last up to 30 hours of usage. It is rated as IP52 for dust and water protection.

    The Touch 4G comes with a unique operating system called RTOS Touch, along with a feature known as Cloud Phone Service. This service offers users cloud-based shortcuts to popular news, games, and other useful information.

    Additional Features

    The device includes an application called Express Chat that allows for text and voice messaging as well as video calls. Users can record voice messages by pressing the Quick Call button located at the top of the phone. The Express Chat app is also available for download on Android and iOS through the Play Store and App Store respectively.

    The HMD Touch 4G is currently available for purchase directly from HMD at a price of ₹3,999 (approximately $45 or €39). The package includes a charger and a protective case in the box.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S22 Series Loses Major OS Support with One UI 8

    Samsung Galaxy S22 Series Loses Major OS Support with One UI 8

    Key Takeaways

    1. The One UI 8 update, based on Android 16, is the last major software upgrade for Galaxy S22 series devices.
    2. The update is being rolled out globally, starting with users in Europe and India, and is a large download (over 3 GB).
    3. This update fulfills Samsung’s commitment to provide four major Android updates for the S22 series, launched in 2022.
    4. Users are disappointed as the update does not include new Galaxy AI features, unlike the Galaxy S23 FE.
    5. The Galaxy S22 series will continue to receive security patches until sometime in 2026.

    For those who own the Samsung Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra, the last big software upgrade is now being rolled out worldwide. Samsung has begun distributing the One UI 8 update, which is based on Android 16. This marks the final version of the Android operating system that these 2022 flagship models will officially get. Users in Europe and India have already reported seeing the update, which is quite a large download of over 3 GB. It also includes the latest security patch dated September 1, 2025. The rollout is expected to gradually reach more regions over the next few days and weeks.

    Bittersweet Update

    This One UI 8 update is a mixed bag for users, as it fulfills Samsung’s original promise for software support for the Galaxy S22 series. The devices were launched in 2022 with Android 12, and moving to Android 16 completes the four major Android updates that Samsung had initially committed to providing. This approach differs from the company’s newer promise of seven years of updates for more recent flagships like the Galaxy S24 and S25 series. It seems that Samsung is unlikely to extend the support for the S22 series unexpectedly.

    Missing Features

    A major letdown for users is that this One UI 8 update does not include any new Galaxy AI features. This is especially strange since the Galaxy S23 FE, which received all the AI enhancements, runs on the same Exynos 2200 or Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processors that power the S22 series. As a result, S22 owners get the latest operating system but miss out on Samsung’s newest intelligent software capabilities. While the major OS upgrades have come to an end, the Galaxy S22 is not entirely out of support. The devices will still receive security patches for at least another year, with support continuing until sometime in 2026.

    Tarun Vats on X.

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  • Dbrand Launches Cosmic Orange Skin for Xbox Series X, Steam Deck, Pixel

    Dbrand Launches Cosmic Orange Skin for Xbox Series X, Steam Deck, Pixel

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are now available in the popular Cosmic Orange color.
    2. Dbrand offers Cosmic Orange skins for a wide range of devices, not just iPhones.
    3. The skins can be used on handheld gaming consoles like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch.
    4. Dbrand has made Cosmic Orange skins compatible with various Android smartphones, including models from Pixel and OnePlus.
    5. Prices for the Cosmic Orange skins start at $11.95 and can go up to $64.90 on Dbrand’s website.

    The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are now available in Cosmic Orange, a color that’s quickly become popular with consumers. To help users achieve this trendy look, the accessory brand Dbrand has launched skins for various devices, allowing owners to give their gadgets a similar finish.

    Wide Range of Devices

    The Cosmic Orange skins and cases from Dbrand aren’t just limited to the iPhones. They’re available for a variety of gadgets, including Apple products like AirPods and MacBooks. If you missed out on the Cosmic Orange color for your iPhone 17 Pro (Max), you can still get the skin to match.

    Gaming Consoles and Handhelds

    Beyond Apple devices, the Cosmic Orange skin can be used on handheld consoles like the Steam Deck (OLED), Nintendo Switch/Switch 2, ROG Ally/Ally X, and Legion Go/Go S. Console gamers can also wrap their Xbox Series S|X and PlayStation 5 (Pro) in this eye-catching shade.

    Android Compatibility

    Dbrand has also made the Cosmic Orange skins available for various Android smartphones, including the Pixel 6 (a) and later models, OnePlus 10 Pro, OnePlus 12, and OnePlus 13, as well as the Galaxy S22 series and newer, Galaxy Z Flip 5 and above, and Galaxy Z Fold 4 and later. In addition to skins, Dbrand offers its Grip Case featuring the Cosmic Orange design; if you happen to own a Dbrand Grip Case already, you can buy just the skin for it.

    You can find these products on Dbrand’s website, where the prices for the Cosmic Orange skin start at $11.95 and can go up to $64.90.

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  • Native Call Recording Feature Coming, But Not for All Users Yet

    Native Call Recording Feature Coming, But Not for All Users Yet

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nothing has launched a new call recording feature for select smartphones through its service, Essential Space.
    2. The feature is automatically activated, requiring no manual updates or downloads from users.
    3. Users can record calls by long-pressing the Essential Key or selecting “Start recording” in the notification bar.
    4. Currently, the feature is available for the Nothing Phone (3), Phone (3a), and Phone (3a) Pro in specific countries, including India, Japan, and the UK.
    5. Nothing plans to expand the availability of the call recording feature to more markets in the future.

    Nothing has begun to implement a fresh call recording feature for its smartphones, although there is a catch: it’s currently limited to a select few models and regions. This update is delivered via Essential Space, which is the company’s own service. It activates call recording automatically, eliminating the need for users to perform a manual update. Therefore, users won’t have to download or install anything for this feature to show up, as it’s part of a server-side rollout managed by Nothing.

    How to Use the New Feature

    When this feature becomes accessible, you can record a voice call simply by long-pressing the Essential Key or by selecting “Start recording” in the call notification bar. After the call concludes, the recording will be saved in Essential Space, making it available for playback whenever you wish. Currently, Nothing has rolled out this update for the Nothing Phone (3), Phone (3a), and Phone (3a) Pro, but it’s only available to users in India, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and the UK. The company has mentioned plans to broaden availability to additional markets over time, though specific dates have yet to be provided.

    Previous Features and Future Plans

    Interestingly, this isn’t the first instance where Nothing users have encountered recording options on their devices. Earlier last year, the company discreetly introduced a recorder widget capable of capturing calls without the typical notification sound, enabling more private recordings. However, this widget later vanished from some devices following app updates, leaving users puzzled about its existence. Now, with this official rollout through Essential Space, Nothing appears to be standardizing the process of call recording across its devices, although it’s clearly beginning on a small scale.

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  • Honor Magic 8 Global Model Launches on Geekbench with Snapdragon 8

    Honor Magic 8 Global Model Launches on Geekbench with Snapdragon 8

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Honor Magic 8 series will launch in China around mid-October, with at least two models: Magic 8 and Magic 8 Pro.
    2. The global version of the Honor Magic 8 features the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and 12GB of RAM, identified by model number “BKQ-N49.”
    3. Benchmark scores for the global Magic 8 include 3,563 for single-core and 7,632 for multi-core performance.
    4. The Magic 8 is expected to have a 6.58-inch display, a 7,000mAh battery, and support for 90W fast charging.
    5. The anticipated release date in China is October 15, but there is no confirmed launch date for other countries.

    The Honor Magic 8 series is set to be launched in China around mid-October. This lineup will likely consist of at least two models: the regular Magic 8 and the Magic 8 Pro. Recently, the Magic 8 Pro appeared on Geekbench, and now the global version of the standard Magic 8 has also made its appearance on the same benchmarking platform.

    Model Numbers and Specs

    The global version of the Honor Magic 8 is identified by the model number “BKQ-N49,” differing from the Chinese variant, which carries the model number “BKQ-AN80.” According to the Geekbench listing, this global device is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and boasts 12GB of RAM. The operating system it runs on is Android 16.

    In the benchmark tests, it achieved scores of 3,563 for single-core and 7,632 for multi-core performance. The multi-core score is somewhat lower, possibly due to it being a pre-production model. For comparison, the Magic 8 Pro, which uses the same chipset, recorded a single-core score of 3,634 and a multi-core score of 10,813.

    Features and Availability

    A source on Weibo previously indicated that the Honor Magic 8 will come with a display measuring 6.58 inches. Additionally, it is expected to be powered by a substantial 7,000mAh battery with support for 90W fast charging. The phone is anticipated to be available in gold, black, and blue colors. The anticipated release date in China is October 15. However, there is currently no confirmed date for when the Honor Magic 8 series will launch in other countries.

     

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    Honor Magic 8 Global Model Launches on Geekbench with Snapdragon 8Honor Magic 8 Global Model Launches on Geekbench with Snapdragon 8Honor Magic 8 Global Model Launches on Geekbench with Snapdragon 8

     

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  • HMD Pulse 2 Pro Leaks: iPhone-Style Camera & 50MP Selfie Camera

    HMD Pulse 2 Pro Leaks: iPhone-Style Camera & 50MP Selfie Camera

    Key Takeaways

    1. The HMD Pulse 2 Pro features a slightly curved plastic frame with a built-in fingerprint sensor and a camera module inspired by the Apple iPhone 17 Pro.
    2. It has an IP54 rating, making it resistant to dust and water splashes, but not fully waterproof.
    3. The smartphone includes a 6.7-inch 120 Hz IPS display, stereo speakers, two microphones, and a programmable button.
    4. It is equipped with a 50 MP main camera and a 50 MP selfie camera, along with a 2 MP additional sensor, and uses the older Unisoc T7250 processor.
    5. The device has a 5,000 mAh battery with 20-watt USB-C charging and is expected to launch with Android 15, but details on the launch date and pricing are not yet available.

    After some early information about the HMD Pulse 2 Pro was shared in July, the trustworthy source @smashx_60 has revealed a clear image along with additional features of this mid-range smartphone. HMD Global seems to have chosen a slightly curved plastic frame that includes a power button, a built-in fingerprint sensor, and a camera module that looks like it takes inspiration from the Apple iPhone 17 Pro.

    Design and Features

    The HMD Pulse 2 Pro is said to have a casing that’s relatively simple to repair, but it only holds an IP54 rating, which means it isn’t fully waterproof. Buyers can choose from colors such as Glacier Green, Midnight Black, and Twilight Purple. It’s reported that the frame includes a button that users can program themselves. Other features consist of an NFC chip for making payments without contact, stereo speakers, and two microphones. The smartphone sports a 6.7-inch display, which is likely based on a 120 Hz IPS panel with a resolution of 1,080p+.

    Camera and Performance

    As per the leak, HMD Global plans to equip the device with a 50 MP selfie camera and a 50 MP main camera, but there is only a 2 MP sensor included as well. The company appears to be cutting corners on the processor, using the Unisoc T7250, which is an older 12 nm ARM chip. This chip features just two ARM Cortex-A75 performance cores that run at up to 1.8 GHz and six Cortex-A55 efficiency cores clocked at 1.6 GHz. The battery capacity is set at 5,000 mAh and will support charging through USB-C at 20 watts. The mid-range smartphone is anticipated to launch with Android 15, though information regarding the launch date and pricing is still awaited.

    @smashx_60 (X)

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  • Small Smartphone Batteries in Europe: Why They Could Be Bigger

    Small Smartphone Batteries in Europe: Why They Could Be Bigger

    Key Takeaways

    1. Many smartphones in China are being released with large batteries, some reaching 15,000mAh, but most do not reach the European market due to regulations.
    2. The European Agreement on the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods classifies batteries over 20Wh as dangerous, complicating transportation and increasing costs.
    3. Batteries exceeding 20Wh cannot be easily imported or traded, as they are often mislabeled and companies refuse to repair them.
    4. A potential solution is using multi-cell batteries under 20Wh, but this would make phones thicker and less appealing, which manufacturers are reluctant to do.
    5. Current laws limiting battery capacity are not expected to change until at least 2027, despite consumer dissatisfaction with smartphone battery life.

    More and more smartphones in China are coming out with really big batteries. Even smaller models, such as the iQOO 15 Mini, feature a 7,000mAh capacity, while brands like Realme are working on thinner devices that could have as much as 15,000mAh. Still, many of these high-capacity smartphones never reach the European market, and others, like the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, are sold with smaller batteries.

    Reasons Behind the Restrictions

    The main reason for this is the European Agreement on the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR), which states that battery cells over 20Wh need to be classified as dangerous goods. This requirement not only raises transportation costs but also complicates the process, since only a few shipping companies will handle packages classified as dangerous.

    Importing Challenges

    20Wh is roughly equal to about 5,200mAh when considering the standard voltage of smartphone batteries. In theory, consumers can import phones with bigger batteries from places like France or China. However, as noted by Ingram, many of these devices are often mislabeled, making their transport illegal. Additionally, users should keep in mind that devices with batteries exceeding 20Wh usually can’t be repaired or traded in, as companies often refuse them due to the added logistical challenges.

    Possible Solutions

    The most straightforward way to deal with this issue is to use batteries made up of multiple cells. If each individual cell is under 20Wh, it allows for much larger batteries to be installed. This is why laptops, gaming devices, and tablets can have larger batteries without facing the same issues.

    However, Vivo argues that this isn’t a viable solution, since multi-cell batteries take up more room and would make phones thicker and heavier, making them less appealing. The EU and US markets are simply not large enough to justify creating a new production line for smartphones with a thicker build and multi-cell batteries, according to Vivo. Instead, they send the same batteries to Europe as they do to China, but with lower voltage to remain within the 20Wh limit.

    For instance, the Vivo X200 Pro typically has a 6,000mAh battery in most areas, but in Germany and Austria, it is only 5,200mAh. The industry is pushing for a change in the laws, but any adjustments are not expected until at least 2027, and there are no concrete plans to revise the current battery capacity limit. Despite a survey from Vivo showing that two-thirds of users are unhappy with their smartphone battery life, no improvements are anticipated in the near future.

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  • OnePlus 15T Release Date and Key Specifications Revealed

    OnePlus 15T Release Date and Key Specifications Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The OnePlus 15 is set to launch in China this October, following the OnePlus 13T.
    2. The OnePlus 15T will feature a 6.3-inch display and a metal frame, with a customizable side button.
    3. It is expected to be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor.
    4. The device will likely include an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner and a battery capacity over 7,000mAh.
    5. The OnePlus 15T is anticipated to launch between March and April next year, potentially rebranded as the OnePlus 15s for international markets.

    The OnePlus 13T made its debut in China earlier this year as a compact flagship smartphone with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. Recently, fresh information has emerged about its upcoming successor, the OnePlus 15T.

    Upcoming Release Details

    OnePlus is gearing up to unveil its flagship smartphone: the OnePlus 15. The launch is anticipated to take place in China this October. As for the compact OnePlus 15T, a well-known leaker, Smart Pikachu, shared on Weibo that it will come equipped with a 6.3-inch display. The smartphone is said to sport a metal frame and might include a customizable side button, much like its previous model.

    Performance Specifications

    The OnePlus 15T is rumored to be driven by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. This chipset is Qualcomm’s newest flagship offering and will also be used in the standard OnePlus 15. The device will likely come with an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner and boast a battery capacity exceeding 7,000mAh.

    Expected Launch Timeline

    According to the leaker, the OnePlus 15T is expected to launch between March and April next year. This timeline specifically refers to the launch in China. For international markets, the smartphone may be rebranded as the OnePlus 15s. To put this in perspective, the OnePlus 13T was launched in China in April and subsequently released as the OnePlus 13s in June for customers outside of China.

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    OnePlus 15T Release Date and Key Specifications RevealedOnePlus 15T Release Date and Key Specifications Revealed

     

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  • Akko Unveils Backlit MetaKey Keyboard Case for iPhone

    Akko Unveils Backlit MetaKey Keyboard Case for iPhone

    Key Takeaways

    1. Akko has launched the MetaKey, a keyboard case designed for iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 16 Pro Max, enhancing screen usage by eliminating the on-screen keyboard.
    2. The MetaKey features shortcut keys for quick access to apps and functions, similar to a product introduced by Clicks for Apple phones.
    3. It includes a magnetic array for attaching accessories, like the 5K Baseus PicoGo MagSafe power bank, while providing precise cutouts for easy access to device ports and buttons.
    4. The keyboard case has a white backlight for low-light typing and a removable weight for customizable balance, making it lightweight without the added weight.
    5. Additional features include a passthrough mode for USB data transfers, a shortcut for quick numeric input, and a durable construction, with pricing set at $59.99 for iPhone 16 Pro Max and $69.99 for iPhone 17 Pro Max.

    Akko has introduced a new product named MetaKey, which is a keyboard case similar to BlackBerry models, designed for the iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 16 Pro Max. The company claims that this accessory maximizes screen usage by removing the need for an on-screen keyboard, providing users with a more efficient typing experience.

    A Familiar Concept

    This idea isn’t entirely fresh for iPhone accessories; Clicks unveiled a comparable product for Apple phones during CES 2024, which also works with certain Android devices. Similar to Clicks’s product, Akko MetaKey features shortcut keys that allow users to quickly access applications and functionalities via specific keyboard combinations.

    Innovative Features

    One of the remarkable features of the Akko MetaKey is its magnetic array. This feature allows users to attach magnetic accessories to their iPhone while using the keyboard case (5K Baseus PicoGo MagSafe power bank currently priced at $49.99 on Amazon). In terms of design, Akko emphasizes that the case has accurate cutouts, providing full access to all ports, buttons, microphones, and speakers.

    The keyboard case includes a white backlight, which makes typing in low-light conditions much easier. Users can also customize their experience with a removable weight; a 9-gram weight can be added for a more balanced feel, while the case is reported to be very lightweight without it.

    Additional Features

    Other notable features of the Akko MetaKey include a passthrough mode that facilitates easy data transfers via USB, a specific function shortcut for quick numeric input mode, and a robust “durable PU+TPU” construction. The keyboard case is currently available at an early bird price exclusively for the iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 17 Pro Max. For pricing, the iPhone 16 Pro Max version is available for $59.99, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max variant is priced at $69.99.

     

    Akko Unveils Backlit MetaKey Keyboard Case for iPhone

     

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  • Affordable Replacement Parts for Google Pixel 10 Pro (XL) Available

    Affordable Replacement Parts for Google Pixel 10 Pro (XL) Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. iFixit now offers replacement parts, tools, and repair guides for Google Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, enabling DIY repairs.
    2. Many components, like the rear triple camera, are cheaper than those for the Pixel 9 Pro, with significant price drops.
    3. Battery prices have decreased by $10, now costing $49, despite increased capacity.
    4. Prices for some parts, such as the display and glass back panel, have slightly increased compared to the previous model.
    5. Users can save money by repairing their smartphones themselves using the provided guides and parts.

    iFixit has started providing replacement parts, tools, and repair guides for the Google Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL. This enables users to fix their smartphones on their own if needed. The company offers the essential tools, but those who don’t need them can save a few bucks.

    Price Drops on Some Components

    It’s quite unexpected that many parts are significantly cheaper compared to the Pixel 9 Pro. For instance, the rear triple camera and tools are now priced at just $199, a decrease from $266 for the earlier model. This change occurs even though Google has continued using the same hardware, which includes a 50MP f/1.7 main camera with a 1/1.31-inch sensor, a 48MP f/1.7 ultra-wide camera with a 1/2.55-inch sensor, and a 48MP f/2.8 telephoto camera with a 1/2.55-inch sensor featuring 5x zoom. Interestingly, the batteries are $10 less than those for the Pixel 9 Pro, costing $49, despite having a higher capacity.

    Slight Price Increase for Some Parts

    For those looking to replace the display, they will need to spend a bit more than previously, with prices around $259. The glass back panel has seen a slight price increase as well, ranging from $99 to $109. The front camera price stays the same at either $66 or $76, based on the model. As shown in the teardown video linked below, users can indeed repair the Google Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL (starting at $1,199 on Amazon) by themselves to save some cash.

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